Monday
23rd Dec 2024
Dhivehi Edition
Transport Minister Nahula. Photo: Oneonline
Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Aishath Nahula on Tuesday was fined for violating Health Protection Agency’s (HPA) guidelines to help curb the spread of COVID-19.
According to information received by Dhiyares, the minister was fined while dining at a restaurant in Male’. She did not follow the mandatory quarantine period of 14 days after her visit to Dubai. Local media reported that Minister Nahula also attended office during the allotted quarantine period.
The exact fine is unknown. A first-time offender is usually fined MVR 1,000.
A Police media official stated that a list of those who have broken HPA rules will be publicized, noting that being served at restaurants in Male’ is also currently not allowed. Minister Nahula has yet to make a statement.
The minister, in 2020, defied full lockdown rules by traveling to Sun Island Resort with her family. The matter became heated. However, Spokesperson for the President’s Office Mabrook Azeez attempted to defend her actions, claiming resort owners, investors, and other officials had special permission from the Technical Advisory Group (TAG).
A leaked photograph also showed former President and incumbent Speaker of Parliament Mohamed Nasheed dining at cafés and restaurants at times when establishments were not allowed to cater to customers in-house.
Parliament representative for Nolhivaram constituency Mohamed Nasheed Abdulla (Mostaa) tweeted the image, tagging HPA and police, asking if rules did not apply to some individuals. Mostaa claimed the image was captured at 9.30 pm. At the time, HPA guidelines dictated cafés and restaurants were to remain closed after 8 pm.